Supervisor Krupsky submits tentative 2027 budget that stays under New York State tax cap

Supervisor Albert Krupsky Jr. formally submitted Southold's tentative fiscal year 2027 budget to the town board on Oct. 2, saying the proposal "does not pierce the tax cap" and reflects an effort to minimize taxpayer costs while maintaining services.

Krupsky told the board that the town's fiscal position is strong due to careful management but that local finances face pressure. "New York State has set a cap on local government spending, which does not reflect the reality of many expenses that are outside of our control," he said, adding that unfunded state mandates and higher operating costs complicate budgeting.

The supervisor said forecasted sales tax revenue has not increased and mortgage tax revenue "has significantly decreased," and he reported that settlements of lawsuits inherited from the previous administration "has drained the contingency fund for 2026." Krupsky emphasized the town will continue to evaluate spending priorities and noted the budget includes new recurring expenses previously supported by federal ARPA funds.

Krupsky also highlighted personnel and capital items baked into the tentative plan: the budget counts 217 full-time and 49 part-time employees and funds planned capital investments, including vehicle replacements and support for a new highway barn intended to extend equipment life. He said the board is accepting the tentative budget at this meeting; further department-by-department review, a public hearing, and a formal adoption vote are expected ahead of the November vote.

The board recorded a voice vote to adjourn at the end of the session after accepting the tentative submission. No formal adoption occurred at the meeting.